Also stolen were a blue Mercedes E220 convertible, registration KV15 YYX, a large quantity of cash, as well as a stainless steel men’s Cartier watch from the Ballon Blue de Cartier range and a stainless steel men’s Hublot Big Bang Aero watch with a dark leather strap.

Detective Constable Stephen Jenkins said: “Needless to say, the owners of these dogs are devastated. This is a heartless crime and we have concerns for the dogs’ welfare.

“We are appealing for anyone who may have been offered any of the dogs or items for sale to come forward.

“Anyone with any information is urged to contact us via 101 quoting reference 1900004131 or you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”